Sultan inaugurates Sharjah Children's Reading Festival

Sharjah Ruler honours winners of the Sharjah Children's Book Award; Sultan launches newly redesigned website of the International Award for Arabic Children's Literature, 'Reader of the Century' platform.

- Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated on Wednesday, the 16th annual edition of the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF 2025), organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, which runs until May 4 at Expo Centre Sharjah under the theme 'Dive into Books'.

Upon arrival, Sheikh Sultan was welcomed by Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), Abdul Rahman Bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention; Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hano, Egypt's Minister of Culture; alongside heads and directors of Sharjah’s leading cultural and educational institutions, as well as authors, intellectuals, and specialists in children's literature who are part of SCRF this year.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the Ruler of Sharjah marked the opening of the festival, which was followed by a delightful artistic performance by children.

Through their performance, they expressed their gratitude to Sheikh Sultan for continually supporting children and their love for SCRF and the numerous opportunities it offers through its events and activities.